How a Sinus Lift Makes Implants More Possible

Posted on 5/27/2017 by Dr McMurray

Dental implants have become the top choice of both dentists and patients for replacing missing teeth. Implants involve a surgical procedure that place small, titanium rods into the jawbone. The rods fuse to the bone as your jaw heals, creating a strong stable "root" on which crowns are affixed.

Dental implants are an excellent choice for many people. However, you first need to have sufficient bone mass to support them. Lacking the mass necessary used to mean implants were not an option. Now, a sinus lift surgery can make implants possible.

When is a Sinus Lift Necessary?

Your teeth play an important role in keeping your jawbone strong. When you chew, your teeth stimulate the bone, which sends a message to the rest of the body to send nutrients. When you lose your teeth, even just one, the stimulation lessens. In response, your body sends less nutrients. As a result, your jawbone begins to reabsorb and becomes weak.

Your sinus cavities are located right above your upper back teeth. If you lose teeth in the back top portion of your mouth, the bone mass separating your jaw from the sinus cavity is compromised. If implants were to be placed in this region, they could pierce through the sinus cavity, which can then lead to significant sinus issues.

What Exactly is a Sinus Lift?

A sinus lift is a surgical procedure that involves raising, or "lifting," the sinus cavity. After making an incision to expose the bone, the floor of the cavity is lifted, leaving empty space between the jawbone and the membrane. The empty space is then filled with either natural bone or other bone graft material. After you heal, implants can be successfully placed.

If you are lacking sufficient bone mass for dental implants, this doesn't automatically disqualify you from implants. Contact our office if a sinus lift is right for you.

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